AutoCodes – Generic – P0746

P0746 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off

Quick Answer

The Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid Valve is an electronic pressure regulator that controls transmission line pressure based on current flow through its coil windings. Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty line pressure solenoid valve. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0746 indicates Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off.
Common causes: Common causes include Low transmission fluid level, Dirty transmission fluid, Faulty line pressure solenoid valve.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 85,278

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 02, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0746 Description

The Pressure Control (PC) Solenoid Valve is an electronic pressure regulator that controls transmission line pressure based on current flow through its coil windings. As current flow is increased, the magnetic field produced by the coil moves the solenoid’s plunger further away from the exhaust port. Opening the exhaust port decreases the output fluid pressure regulated by the PC solenoid valve, which ultimately decreases line pressure. The line pressure solenoid valve regulates the oil pump discharge pressure to suit the driving condition in response to a signal sent from the Transmission Control Module (TCM). The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the gear required by the Engine Control Module (ECM) does not match the actual gear when driving.

OBDII Code P0746 - Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off - AutoCodes.com — P0746 Code - Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance or Stuck Off

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0746?

Low transmission fluid level
Dirty transmission fluid
Faulty line pressure solenoid valve
Line pressure solenoid valve harness is open or shorted
Line pressure solenoid valve circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0746?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

When a transmission solenoid has malfunctioned, in most cases the problem is not the electrical part of the solenoid; the problem is foreign material obstructing the mechanical function of the solenoid or the flow of the fluid through the transmission valve body. If the transmission fluid is dirty, it's recommended to change the transmission fluid and if possible, remove the transmission pan for further diagnosis. Excessive debris or metal particles on the transmission pan could be an indication that there is a mechanical transmission failure, and that the transmission will need to be rebuilt or replaced.

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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0746 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Information for Specific Makes

P0746 Acura — Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 'A' Stuck Off
P0746 Audi — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance Or Stuck Off
P0746 Chevrolet — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 1 Stuck Off
P0746 Ford — Pressure Control Solenoid Circuit
P0746 GMC — Transmission Control Solenoid Valve 1 Stuck Off
P0746 Honda — Clutch Pressure Control Solenoid Valve 'A' Stuck Off
P0746 Hyundai — Pressure Control Solenoid Performance or Stuck Off
P0746 Infiniti — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance
P0746 KIA — Variable Forced Solenoid Circuit
P0746 Lexus — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance
P0746 Mazda — Pressure Control Solenoid Performance or Stuck Off
P0746 Mercedes-Benz — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance Or Stuck Off
P0746 Mitsubishi — Hydraulic Control System Function Abnormal
P0746 Nissan — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance
P0746 Scion — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance
P0746 Toyota — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance
P0746 Volkswagen — Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' Performance Or Stuck Off

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0746 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0746?

- Common symptoms of P0746 include harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, poor fuel efficiency, and the Check Engine Light illuminating.

2. What does OBDII code P0746 indicate?

- OBDII code P0746 indicates an issue with the Pressure Control Solenoid 'A' in the transmission, specifically related to performance or being stuck off.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0746?

- Possible causes of P0746 include a faulty pressure control solenoid 'A', low transmission fluid levels, dirty transmission fluid, electrical issues, or a mechanical problem within the transmission.

4. Can driving with OBDII code P0746 damage the vehicle?

- Continuing to drive with OBDII code P0746 may cause further damage to the transmission and other related components, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line.

5. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0746?

- Diagnosing OBDII code P0746 typically involves using a scan tool to read the code, checking the transmission fluid level and condition, inspecting the pressure control solenoid 'A', and performing a thorough transmission system inspection.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0746?

- It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P0746, as it can lead to further transmission issues and potential safety hazards on the road.

7. How can OBDII code P0746 be repaired?

- Repairing OBDII code P0746 often involves replacing the pressure control solenoid 'A', flushing and refilling the transmission fluid, addressing any electrical issues, and ensuring proper functioning of the transmission system.

8. Can I reset OBDII code P0746 without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting OBDII code P0746 without fixing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the code, but the problem will likely reoccur until the root cause is addressed.

9. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0746?

- The cost to repair OBDII code P0746 can vary depending on the specific issue, labor rates, and parts needed, but it is advisable to budget for potentially significant repair costs involving the transmission system.

10. Can OBDII code P0746 be prevented?

- Regular maintenance, such as timely transmission fluid changes, can help prevent issues like OBDII code P0746. Addressing any transmission-related symptoms promptly can also prevent further damage and costly repairs.